CEBU — Cebu Pacific marked its 30th anniversary with the launch of Cebu Pacific Foundation Inc. (CPFI), a new organization dedicated to building resilience and advancing sustainable tourism. The foundation will focus on nature-based solutions to protect ecosystems and strengthen livelihoods.
A Foundation for Resilience
The foundation's mission is to reduce disaster and climate risks while creating opportunities for sustainable local economies. It will collaborate with local organizations, private sector partners, civil society, and government agencies. The goal is to connect people on the ground with the expertise and resources they need.
CPFI Chairman and President Xander Lao said the foundation builds on Cebu Pacific's three decades of connecting people, places, and opportunities. He emphasized that the new initiative will focus on protecting natural environments that sustain communities. This marks a significant step toward integrating sustainability into the airline's legacy.
RISE Capiz Coast Project: A Blueprint for Restoration
The foundation's first major project is the Resilience & Inclusive Support for Empowerment of Capiz Coastal Communities Project, also known as RISE Capiz Coast. The initiative commenced in Barangay Culajao, Roxas City, and will expand to Ivisan and Panay municipalities in Capiz. The project aims to restore 100 hectares of degraded coastal areas through mangrove rehabilitation.
Beyond ecosystem restoration, the project will provide capacity-building programs in livelihoods and disaster risk reduction. The target is to reach 500 hectares of restored mangroves by 2030. This ambitious goal reflects a long-term commitment to coastal resilience and sustainable tourism.
Local Leadership and Partnership
The Katunggan sa Culajao Salbaron Association, Inc. (KACUSA) leads local stewardship efforts in Barangay Culajao. KACUSA President Christopher Dasal expressed gratitude for the partnership, noting that Typhoon Yolanda had severely disrupted eco-tourism and income sources. He said the project will help revive tourism and strengthen the local economy.
The project is implemented in partnership with Futures, Inc., a Japan-based climate finance-linked project developer, and the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). These collaborations bring international expertise and conservation experience to Capiz. The combined efforts aim to restore ecosystems and create new opportunities for families.
Building a Sustainable Future
The foundation welcomes collaborations with organizations and individuals committed to meaningful environmental and economic outcomes. The approach emphasizes shared expertise, resources, and local leadership. This inclusive model ensures that communities are active participants in their own development.
Cebu Pacific's foundation represents a growing trend among corporations to invest in climate resilience. The airline's commitment to nature-based solutions reflects a broader understanding of sustainable tourism. The foundation's work in Capiz could serve as a model for other coastal communities across the Philippines.
